Inside the GMAT

This episode was originally published on September 7, 2023. GMAC's Eric Chambers is joined by Charles Bibilos, Founder of GMAT Ninja, where they do things a bit differently by tackling your test anxiety head on. Charles talks all things assessment anxiety, from how it can manifest in an exam environment to how to overcome it, with a lively discussion about how the latest edition of the GMAT helps reduce your chances of experiencing anxiety on test day. Tune in to get over your testing jitters! References:  GMAT Ninja How GMAT™ Reduces Test Anxiety

It's the season finale, and we're going deep! In this solo episode, host Zach breaks down everything you've ever wanted to know about the GMAT exam. Whether you're just starting to explore business school or already deep in prep mode, this is your all-in-one explainer for what's on the exam, how it's scored, how to prepare, and how to use your score to stand out. Zach walks through each section of the exam, plus testing options, prep resources, accommodations, and what your score report actually tells you. You'll also get the facts on percentile rankings, test day logistics, and why a GMAT score is more than just a number. No hype, no gimmicks—just real talk about the #1 test in business school admisions. WATCH ON SPOTIFY OR YOUTUBE TO SEE ACCOMPANYING SLIDES & VISUALS Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register Chapters: 01:02 - Exam Overview & Features 03:48 - Scoring Explained 08:06 - Quantitative Reasoning 10:08 - Verbal Reasoning 13:06 - Data Insights 20:22 - Accessing & Sending Your Score 25:22 - Planning for Test Day    

Artificial intelligence is here, but how much is too much when it comes to your MBA application? This week, host Zach Fernebok sits down with Loubna Bouamane, founder of Admission Concierge and former Director of MBA Admissions, to explore the nuanced role AI now plays in business school applications. From brainstorming essays to managing deadlines, AI tools like ChatGPT can support candidates, but there's a fine line between using AI and outsourcing your voice. Loubna shares the real risks of overrelying on AI, explains how admissions teams are adapting to this new landscape, and offers actionable advice on preserving authenticity in an increasingly automated world. If you're considering using AI in your MBA journey (or already are) this episode is your guide to staying smart, ethical, and unforgettable. Admission Concierge: https://admissionconcierge.com/ Key Takeaways 1. AI can help, but it can't (and shouldn't) tell your story. Using AI for structure, grammar, and idea generation can be helpful, but outsourcing your personal voice leads to generic, shallow, and forgettable applications. 2. Authenticity is your biggest competitive edge. Admissions officers can spot essays that lack real reflection. What stands out isn't perfect prose. It's self-awareness, emotional honesty, and clarity of purpose. 3. Schools aren't anti-AI. They're anti-fake. Top programs are updating their policies to emphasize ethics. Many condone AI for brainstorming, but warn against using it to write essays or letters of recommendation. 4. Interviews and real-time assessments are gaining importance. Expect more behavioral, values-based, and spontaneous prompts as schools look to assess consistency between your written and spoken narrative. 5. Use AI wisely: treat it like a project assistant, not a ghostwriter. Smart uses include organizing deadlines, shortening essays, or improving clarity, not generating full drafts or making up content. Chapters 00:55 - The Beginning of AI in Applications 02:48 - The Role of AI in Application Strategy 05:29 - Common Uses of AI by Applicants 09:45 - Business School Response to AI 12:03 - Smart and Responsible AI Usage 12:54 - The Risks of AI in Applications 15:09 - The Importance of Authenticity 17:45 - Strategies for Authentic Writing 18:51 - Exercises for Developing Personal Narratives 20:50 - Real-Life Examples of Authenticity 22:53 - Future of Admissions in the Age of AI 24:31 - Final Thoughts

Thinking about business school? Don't go it alone. In this episode, we're hitting the road as we explore GMAC Tours, the global events that bring top business schools and aspiring students together under one roof. Host Zach is joined by Maggie Cooley, Director of Events and Marketing for GMAC Tours, to unpack why these MBA & Masters Tour events are more than just information sessions. They're networking goldmines, resume-boosting bootcamps, and overall application game-changers. You'll hear what really happens at a Tour event, how to make a lasting impression, and why attending one could help you discover your best-fit program (especially one you've never considered before). Whether you're years away from applying or finalizing your target school list, this episode will help you make the most of one of the most impactful tools on your business school journey. Find a Tour near you: https://www.mba.com/connect-with-schools/gmac-tours/events-calendar Key Takeaways 1. GMAC Tours are free, curated events designed for every stage of the b-school journey. Whether you're exploring your options or ready to apply, there's value for everyone—from keynotes and meetups to resume clinics and GMAT info sessions. 2. The biggest asset? Face time with admissions reps. Attendees meet directly with decision-makers from top global business schools, building authentic relationships that can strengthen applications and inform school selection. 3. Thoughtful preparation goes a long way. Doing research ahead of time, preparing smart questions, and showing genuine curiosity helps you stand out, both in scheduled meetups and casual booth chats. 4. Be open to discovering new schools. 80% of attendees consider a new program they hadn't previously thought about. Don't just target the usual suspects—use the event to explore your full range of options. 5. Your application can benefit directly. From resume feedback to application tips and admissions insights, the information (and impression) you gain at a Tour event can translate into a stronger, more personalized application. Chapters 01:12 - What is a Tour Event? 03:25 - Who Should Attend? 05:24 - Overview of Activities 06:55 - About School Meet-Ups 10:04 - About Resume Review Clinics 11:20 - About B-School Talks 12:01 - About the GMAT Info Session 13:16 - Planning Your Schedule 14:52 - Benefits of Attending 16:57 - Using the Event to Strengthen Your Application 17:56 - Success Stories 21:07 - Tips for Attending 23:06 - Making a Great Impression at Networking Events 25:07 - Common Mistakes to Avoid 28:42 - Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Zach sits down with friend and colleague Andrew Walker, Director of Industry Communications at GMAC, to unpack the latest insights from the 2025 Prospective Students Survey. They dive into what 5,000 prospective business school candidates around the world are thinking about today — from the growing demand for hands-on AI experiences to the rising importance of human skills, like grit and adaptability. You'll hear why more candidates are prioritizing ROI over program rankings, how financial planning is evolving, and why in-person programs are making a surprising comeback. Whether you're actively applying, just starting to explore your options, or simply curious about what's shaping the future of graduate management education, this conversation offers data-backed insights and practical takeaways you won't want to miss. Takeaways: 46% of business school candidates prioritize AI experiences in their curriculum. Employers value human skills like emotional intelligence and adaptability alongside technical skills. Cost remains a significant barrier for candidates considering business school. Only 29% of candidates prioritize program rankings first when researching schools. Candidates are increasingly looking for direct information from school websites, not AI. The MBA remains the most preferred degree, but interest in business master's programs is growing. Candidates prefer full-time in-person programs over hybrid or online formats post-pandemic. Financial aid is becoming a more significant part of funding education for candidates. Candidates are considering a multi-dimensional approach to their return on investment from business school. Chapters: 01:04 - What is the Prospective Students Survey? 03:00 - The Role of AI in Business Education 07:28 - Financial Considerations for Business School Candidates 11:49 - The Importance of Program Rankings 15:43 - Shifting Preferences in Business Degrees 18:09 - Program Delivery Formats and Trends 22:23 - Key Takeaways and Future Insights

In this episode, Shaifali Aggarwal, founder and CEO of Ivy Groupe MBA Admissions Consulting, dives deep into MBA application essays and school interviews. She discusses the importance of each in the application process, emphasizing the need for authenticity and self-reflection. Shaifali also shares practical tips for writing compelling essays, common mistakes applicants make, and how to manage stress during the writing process. The second half of the conversation covers the role of interviews, the types of interviews, the most common questions asked, and strategies for effective preparation. Takeaways: Authenticity and reflection are key to standing out. Understanding the intent behind essay questions is crucial. Storytelling should connect experiences to larger themes. Avoid writing what you think admissions committees want to hear. Generative AI can assist in research but not in writing essays. Start with self-reflection before writing your essays. Practice common interview questions out loud for confidence. Know your application inside out for interviews. Follow up with interviewers to express gratitude. Chapters: 01:21 - Meet Shaifali03:05 - What are MBA Essays?05:06 - Different Types of Essay Questions07:57 - Types of MBA Essays and Their Purpose10:58 - Storytelling in Essays12:19 - AI in Essay Writing13:42 - Common Mistakes in Essay Writing15:05 - Adding a Personal Touch18:03 - Practical Writing Tips20:27 - Incorporating Feedback Effectively22:30 - Managing Stress While Writing23:47 - The Role of Interviews in MBA Applications25:37 - Types of MBA Interviews28:20 - Common Interview Questions and Strategies32:36 - Job vs. MBA Interview33:41 - Interview Preparation Essentials36:44 - Managing Interview Stress38:58 - Post-Interview Follow-Up and Reflection39:55 - Outro    

In this episode, Zach is joined by Melody Jones from Vantage Point MBA to discuss the often-overlooked period between MBA acceptance and the start of classes, sometimes referred to as the 'Dead Zone.' They explore various strategies for academic readiness, networking, and personal development, as well as the logistical considerations for incoming students. The discussion highlights the significance of using this time wisely to set the stage for a successful MBA experience. Melody also touches on the emotional journey of dealing with rejection and the importance of self-reflection. The conversation ends with common mistakes applicants make during the 'Dead Zone' before starting school. Takeaways: Start building momentum as soon as you're accepted. This can include networking, traveling, or working on personal projects. Understand the recruiting timeline for your industry and leverage your new school email address for networking. Reading can enhance self-awareness and leadership skills. On housing:  It's important to understand housing application deadlines, and “Accepted Student Weekends” are a great place to find your roommate. MBA budgets often underestimate true costs; Melody suggests increasing yours by 20-40%. Weekend travel and social events can significantly impact your budget (traveling with classmates can enhance your MBA experience). International students should use this time to fully understand banking and health insurance. If you were rejected from your top choice school, use this time to strategize how to strengthen your profile if you want to reapply. Avoid comparing your pre-MBA journey to others; focus on your own path. Overall, business school is a transformational experience beyond just education.

In this episode, Stacey Koprince from Manhattan Prep discusses the essential considerations when preparing to take a business school entrance exam. Stacey breaks down her top prep strategies and emphasizes the importance of understanding your study timeline, effective study techniques, recognizing when to take breaks, and the value of collaborative study. Additionally, she highlights the significance of practice tests in gauging progress and structuring a personalized study plan to ensure GMAT success. And of course, no conversation about GMAT prep is complete without covering all three sections of the exam: Quant, Verbal, and Data Insights. Resources: Manhattan Prep's Free GMAT Starter Kit GMAC's Official GMAT Free Starter Kit Takeaways: Preparing for business school starts before studying begins, and sometimes that prep even includes choosing a school/program. Even if a school/program is test optional, an entrance exam can enhance your application. Aim to start studying 3-5 months out, with five or six days of study each week. Prep tips: take breaks, set a timer for short study sessions can help overcome procrastination, and study in groups. Practice tests are essential for gauging progress, identifying weaknesses, and establishing a baseline score. Focus on actionable takeaways from mistakes to improve performance. Structuring your study in phases can lead to more effective learning. You have strengths and weaknesses in your review process. Understand the different question types and strategies for each. Utilize free resources and official materials from GMAC and Manhattan Prep for effective preparation! Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:48 Choosing a Program 10:24 Exam Requirements 19:09 The Right Time to Take an Exam 23:40 Part-Time vs Full-Time Programs 27:51 GMAT Prep Timeline 32:24 Prep Motivation Techniques 37:13 Studying with Others 41:47 Practice Exams 45:34 How to Retain What You've Learned 52:46 GMAT Study Phases 59:36 Exam Best Practices 01:10:17 Recommended Prep Products 01:14:15 Key Takeaways 01:17:21 Conclusion

Summary In this episode, Travis Morgan from MBA Whisperer discusses the intricacies of applying to business schools, debunking common myths and providing valuable insights into the application process. He emphasize the importance of resumes, essays, and understanding school fit over rankings. The discussion also covers the significance of test scores, the role of waitlists, and alternative testing options like the Executive Assessment. Takeaways Your resume is the first impression in applications. Connecting with current students can enhance your application. Admissions committees want to see a three-dimensional applicant. Essays should reflect your personal story, not just professional achievements. Top schools are not the only path to success in business. Rankings should not dictate your school choice. Lower-ranked schools can still offer valuable opportunities. Waitlisted candidates are still strong contenders. The GMAT is not solely a math or English test; it's about problem-solving skills. The Executive Assessment is a viable alternative for many applicants. Chapters 01:03 - Myth 1: Business Experience Required for MBA 03:26 - Myth 2: Apply in Round One for Best Chances 05:36 - When to Start Preparing Your Application 08:12 - The Importance of Networking 09:26 - Myth 3: Your Resume Should Be All Business 11:46 - What About Essays? 14:39 - Myth 4: Only High-Ranked Schools Matter 18:13 - Finding the Right School for Your Goals 20:32 - Myth 5: Lower Ranked Schools Are Easy to Get Into 23:05 - Myth 6: You Can't Get Off the Waitlist 27:07 - Myth 7: The GMAT is Harder Than the GRE 32:08 - Myth 8: The Test Score is the Most Important Part of My Application 34:29 - Can a Test Waiver Hurt Your Chances? 36:13 - Myth 9: Is the GMAT Just a Math + English Test? 39:44 - Myth 10: There Are No Other Exam Alternatives 43:15 - Switching from GMAT, GRE to EA

Summary In this episode, Petia Whitmore from My MBA Path delves into the intricacies of the MBA application process, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, clarity of purpose, and the evaluation criteria used by admissions committees. Petia shares insights from her experience as a former Dean of MBA Admissions, outlining the two phases of the application process: evaluation and selection. She highlights the significance of crafting a unique narrative that showcases a candidate's impact and authenticity, while also addressing common misconceptions about test scores and work experience. The discussion culminates in practical advice for prospective applicants on how to approach their applications with curiosity and a sense of possibility. Takeaways Your application is more than just numbers. Craft a narrative that tells your unique story. Evaluation determines admissibility; selection determines desirability. Clarity of purpose is crucial in your application. Demonstrated impact can come in many forms. Authenticity is key to standing out. Quality of experience is more important than quantity. Test scores indicate academic preparedness but are not the sole factor. Timing your application can influence your chances of admission. Approach the application process with curiosity and openness. Chapters 01:38 - Overview of the MBA Application Process 05:34 - About Admissions Committees 07:26 - Three Pillars of a Strong Application: Clarity, Impact & Authenticity 10:34 - Demonstrating Impact 12:03 - Applicant Authenticity 14:45 - Defining Program "Fit" 17:51 - Introspection and Self-Discovery 23:44 - Quality vs. Quantity 27:26 - Understanding the Role of Test Scores 30:00 - Navigating Test Waivers and Their Implications 32:22 - Timing Your Application: Round One vs. Round Two 36:15 - The Value of Starting Early in the Application Process 38:42 - The Interview Process: What to Expect 45:31 - Finding Your Why: The Key to a Strong Application

Our UK host, Nalisha Patel, gets to know one of this year's inspiring GMAT Talent and Opportunity Scholarship winners, Renata Agostinelli. Renata talks about her unique career journey in tech, her involvement with the Lean In organization, her passion for D&I, plus gives tips on how you too can be successful in your application - and in your life goals.  Resources:  Scholarship Information Lean In Forte Foundation  

Host Eric Chambers is joined by Charles Bibilos, Founder of GMAT Ninja, where they do things a bit differently by tackling your test anxiety head on. Charles talks all things assessment anxiety, from how it can manifest in an exam environment to how to overcome it, with a lively discussion about how GMAT Focus Edition helps reduce your chances of experiencing anxiety on test day. Tune in to get over your testing jitters! References:  GMAT Ninja How GMAT™ Focus Edition Reduces Test Anxiety

In this episode, we're joined by Manish Dharia, Director of Product Marketing at GMAC. Manish talks all things GMAT Focus Edition, covering   how and why we made the decision to bring you the latest evolution of the GMAT;  what the changes to each section, scoring and score report are;   the many benefits these changes add to your testing experience and ultimately your b-school experience and career;  the difference between GMAT Focus Edition and other test options; and   important dates coming up that you won't want to miss.   Tune in now and don't forget to register for GMAT Focus Edition on August 29th.   Episode resources:   GMAT Focus Edition Prep Store  GMAT Focus Edition Registration  GMAT Focus Edition General Information 

Are you interested in GMAT Focus, but haven't spoken to a professional tutor about whether it's the right test for you? This episode has got you covered - our guest, Hailey Cusimano, Director of Tutoring at Menlo Coaching, shares her insights on the test and helps you decide if it's ultimately right for you. As an added bonus, our host, Eric Chambers, a former admissions consultant, weighs in on the value the exam brings to both schools and candidates. 

In this episode, our UK-based host, Nalisha Patel, has a riveting chat with Sunil Kandola, Vice President of Coin Systems Strategy at Onyx by JP  Morgan. You'll hear all about Sunil's fascinating career path – from the British Army to studying an MBA at the prestigious Saïd Business School at Oxford University to landing his role at JP Morgan. Sunil drops useful tips along the way on how to ace the GMAT,  tell your personal story and land your dream role, plus much more.  Resources:  Series of creative storytelling workshops by Simeon Courtie Onyx by JPMorgan

In this episode we're joined by Alexis Jeffries, Head of Business Product Marketing at Glassdoor. Amongst other impressive endeavors, Alexis is paving the way in her thriving tech career and is the Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship at University of Southern California's Marshall School of Business. Learn from Alexis how you can overcome imposter syndrome and create the career path that is right for you while staying true to your authentic self. Oh, and she even throws in spectacular GMAT advice. This is not one to be missed! 

In this episode, Zach chats with Baylor University - Hankamer School of Business Clinical Professor, Dr. Erik Davidson, alongside HSB alum and Walt Disney Company's Strategic Sourcing Specialist, Corrie Tebay, on everything you need to know about the Early-Career MBA. Corrie gives incredible insight into pursuing the right program and career fit for you in her truly inspirational career path. This is a great listen for anyone interested in pursuing an MBA earlier on in their career and are searching for options in the US. Listen now.   This episode was originally recorded in 2022. 

In this episode, guest host Zach Fernebok interviews Ana Kyper, Senior Director of Product Management, GME Prep and Readiness. In just under 10 minutes, Ana will walk you through the 6-week GMAT Focus™ Exam prep journey - including the practice needed, your time commitment, and tips to maximize your GMAT Focus exam success. Episode resources:  Official GMAT Focus PREP resources  Download the app: GMAT Official Practice   

To kickoff Season 3, we are joined by our very own CEO, Joy Jones, as she navigates us through the decision behind the new GMAT Focus Edition and shares with us her thoughts on the future of education. She talks about her personal education story, from her own experience studying for the GMAT and her career-defining experience at Stanford Graduate School of Business. Listen now! 

We're back for a new season! Join us on June 1st, bi-weekly, for Season 3 of Inside the GMAT, your official source on all things GMAT and related products. We'll cover all things GMAT Focus, from regular updates and how to prepare to expert opinions on the GMAT's evolution.  We'll also cover relevant, trending topics in education across the globe with leading experts and chat with previous test takers who've launched incredible careers since starting their graduate management education journey.  All this and much more will be available on Spotify, Stitcher, Apple, insidethegmat.com, or wherever you get your podcasts! 

We are joining by Rodrigo Malta, Managing Director from the University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business, to discuss the big questions that surround the b-school admissions process. Listen for tips on how to strengthen your application and learn the one question you should ask yourself before going to business school. Listen now!

Are you ready to start your business graduate program, but need to level up your core business knowledge before you enter the classroom? Business Fundamentals is for you! In this episode, we invite Ana Kyper and Brian Carlidge to discuss what Business Fundamentals is and how the courses offered can help you succeed in your business school program. www.mba.com/businessfundamentals Business Fundamentals Reviewer Bio Page

Inside the GMAT Replay: Did you know that GMAC offers accommodations for test-takers with disabilities? In this episode, Kailin Burns invites Jason Northup, the Senior Manager for Test Accommodations at GMAC to discuss how you can apply for testing accommodations on your GMAT or Executive Assessment, what testing accommodations GMAC offers, and options you have as a test taker to maximize your test-taking experience. Download the 6 Steps to Applying for a Testing Accommodation

We are back from a break! In this episode, we invited Stacey Koprince of Manhattan Prep to discuss retaking the GMAT exam. We discuss how schools retakes, does retaking the GMAT look bad, and most importantly, how to know when you should retake the GMAT. Stacey gives you all of the insights of retaking the GMAT so you can create a plan to raise your GMAT score.

MBA interviews can be the most nerve-wracking part of your whole application. But there's plenty you can do to prepare, and put your best foot forward. In the third and final episode of this three-part mini-series, BusinessBecause writer Bethany Garner asks admissions directors from two top programs to offer up tips and tricks for making your interview count. David Simpson, admissions director for the MBA at London business School, and Virginie Fougea, global director of admissions at INSEAD, reveal what to wear, how to get across your personal brand, how to handle virtual interviews and more.

Once you're ready to apply for an MBA, how do you make your application stand out? In the second episode of this three-part mini-series, BusinessBecause writer Bethany Garner asks April Leung, head of MBA admissions at HKUST, to share her insights on what makes a stand-out written application From creating a winning resume to avoiding common pitfalls, April walks you through everything you need to know to get your MBA application off to a flying start. Download additional resources here

What makes a strong MBA candidate? In the first episode of this three-part mini-series, BusinessBecause writer Bethany Garner speaks with Eric Askins—Executive Director of Admissions for the full-time MBA program at the University of California, Berkeley, Haas School of Business—to find out. Eric will take you through everything an MBA admissions team is looking for when they take a look at your profile, from work experience, to career goals, to academic performance. Plus, hear Eric's insights on what Berkeley Haas wants most in its MBA recruits. Learn More about what makes a strong MBA candidate here

Did you know that you can prepare for the Executive Assessment in just 4 weeks? Sarabeth Dobbs, the Product Development Manager for Assessments joins the show to tell you about the new 4-week study planner for the Executive Assessment. Sarabeth lets you know what to expect, how to prep, and gives some advice about the Executive Assessment. Download the 4 Week Study Planner Get Executive Assessment Official Prep

On our last episode, we had a great panel of admissions professionals from three business schools tell you how they use the GMAT exam in the admissions process. We discussed the advantages of taking the GMAT exam even as some programs may be test-optional this year. This week, we continue that conversation, this time gaining the perspectives of a panel of top-rated business school admissions consultants.  Admissions consultants Linda Abraham from Accepted and Joe Mashek from Merchant join the show to discuss all the questions you want to know about the GMAT exam and getting into the world's top MBA and business master's programs.

Why should you take the GMAT exam when it is not required for admission to business school? This week our guests Imran Kanga from Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto, Bruce Delmonico from Yale School of Management, and Jessica Krom from Jones Graduate School of Business at Rice University all join the show to explain how the GMAT is used for admissions and break down why taking the GMAT exam when it is not required, benefits you for the admission process. 

Ana Kyper, the Senior Director of GME Prep and Readiness, joins the show to discuss the GMAT's verbal reasoning section. Ana breaks down each question type and gives you tips on approaching and preparing for sentence correction, critical reasoning, and reading comprehension. Get started with verbal reasoning practice with the GMAT Official Practice Questions 1

Enjoy this replay of our GMAT Advanced Questions episode. Are you ready to take your GMAT Exam prep to the next level? Are you looking for harder questions as you prep for the GMAT? Learn about the GMAT Official Advanced Prep. Join Pam Brown the Director of Product Management of the Assessments at GMAC as she discusses what Advanced Prep is, who can benefit from it, and all the features Advanced prep has to guide you to success. To get started, for your exam prep, download the 12 Exclusive GMAT Questions today! 

Business schools are looking for the best candidate for their program: You. In this episode, Christa Johnson-Perkins the Product Director, Marketing Solutions at GMAC Connect joins the show to tell you about the Graduate Management Admission Search Service, better known as GMASS. Learn how you can utilize this free service, and enroll to have schools search for you to join their program. Get started with GMASS here.

Do you want to connect at a personal level with business school representatives and staff members that would provide you access and interaction with the actual decision-makers in the business school admission process? You can by being a part of the MBA Tour. Danielle Boland the Managing Director of The MBA Tour, to tell you how the MBA Tour works, what to expect, and how to stand out for these virtual events. Interested in joining an event with The MBA Tour to explore your business school options? Find an event in your region.

This week we discuss preparing for the Integrated Reasoning (IR) section of the GMAT exam. Chris D'Ambrosio the Product Manager for Assessments at GMAC joins the show to discuss tips and tricks and how you can make a study plan to prepare for the IR section.  Chris discusses the structure, the types of questions, and what the IR is.

This week Ana Kyper, Senior Director of GMAT prep joins the show to discuss a new assessment called Soft Skills. GMAC’s Soft Skills Assessment is an online assessment that provides you the opportunity to enhance your application to a graduate management program.  Ana discusses what the Soft Skills Assessment measures, and how you can take it. 

Prep is a very important part of the GMAT exam, and did you know that over 80% of test-takers who scored over a 700 on their GMAT exam used GMAT Official prep products in their GMAT preparation plan? To help you get a little more insight on prep for your GMAT exam, Shaifali Gupta the Product Management Senior Manager for the GMAT is here to discuss the GMAT Official Guide and what's new in the 2022 edition For listeners of this podcast, use the code OG2022 at checkout to get 22% off your 2022 Official Guide

The Executive Assessment is a 90 minute, 40 question assessment that evaluates your business school readiness. But how do you prep for it? Manish Dharia, Director of Product Management at GMAC returns to the show to discuss prep options, how to prepare, and what to expect on your assessment day.  Check out the Free Executive Assessment Questions Sampler to test yourself and see what areas you need to focus on for your prep.

GMAT exam prep is essential to your success on the exam. But did you know you can tailor your prep to match your personal study style and exam score goals? Ana Kyper, Senior Director of GMAT prep joins the show to discuss what GMAT prep options candidates have, what resources are available, and how you can tailor your prep to accomplish your goals. We want you to be at your best on test day, and Ana is here to help you out. Visit: 5 Ways to Tailor Your Prep

Getting an MBA is not a one-size-fits-all degree. You can tailor your MBA to fit your needs, your preferences, and your goals. Part-time, full-time, online, as well as focusing on a particular area of study, are all topics we discuss with our guest Nita Swinsick, the Assistant Dean, Recruitment and Admissions, Executive and Specialized Degree Programs at Georgetown University McDonough School of Business. Nita gives us insights on specializing your MBA, discuss taking the GMAT exam even if it is not required, and answer the question “why should I get my MBA?” Find your best-fit MBA program with this guide

You may be wondering how the exam is structured, how to prepare for it, what the testing experience is like for both the online and the test center GMAT exams, and what enhancements have been made to the GMAT online exam. To help guide you through the GMAT experience, this week Anjali McKenzie, the Senior Product Manager for the GMAT, will tell us everything we need to know about the GMAT exam. Trying to decide if you should take the online or the test center GMAT exam? Download this guide to see how they compare.

When applying to business school for your graduate business degree, you have options when it comes to taking a standardized test for admissions. The Executive Assessment is another way to show your readiness and helps business school admissions understand how to best support your success in their program. In this episode, Manish Dharia, Director of Product Management at GMAC, tells you about the Executive Assessment by discussing what it is, how it is used, and how you can benefit from taking it to meet your business school goals. Trying to decide to take the Executive Assessment online or at a test center? Download this guide to help you out.

Marco De Novellis from Business Because joins the show to discuss the application process for business schools. You may be just starting to think about applying to business school, or in the early stages of your application process and this episode can help you out. We explore where to begin, what does "rounds" mean, when is the best time to apply to business school, and much more. Download: How to Get Started on Your Full-TIme MBA Applications Guide Download: Business Because MBA Application Guide

Did you know that GMAC offers accommodations for test-takers with disabilities? In this episode, Kailin Burns invites Jason Northup, the Senior Manager for Test Accommodations at GMAC to discuss how you can apply for testing accommodations on your GMAT or Executive Assessment, what testing accommodations GMAC offers, and options you have as a test taker to maximize your test-taking experience. Download the 6 Steps to Applying for a Testing Accommodation

You may be thinking about getting your MBA and questioning if it is worth it. Does getting an MBA help you with your career goals? Is now even a good time to pursue an MBA? Marco DeNovellis an editor at BusinessBecause joins the show to discuss the value of getting an MBA for both yourself and your employer, and lets you know why you should get your MBA now. Download the application trends survey discussed in this episode. Read 50 Reasons Why You Should Get Your MBA

How does the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section of the GMAT exam fit within your GMAT prep plan? This week Pam Brown, the Director of Product Management for GMAC joins the show to explain what the AWA section is, how it gets scored, and how you should prepare.  Pam offers some great tips and information as to how you can supercharge your analytical writing practice. Stay tuned to hear an exclusive AWA Practice offer to listeners of the show!

The Executive Assessment is another option for your business school admissions process. This week, we interview is Brett Twitty, the Senior Director of Admissions at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business. Brett gives us a first-hand account of what a program looks for in candidates during the admission process. He discusses the value of the Executive Assessment and talks about the overall impact of the Executive Assessment on a candidate's journey through business school. Trying to decide if taking the Executive Assessment online or at a test center is right for you? Download this informational sheet to see the similarities and the differences between the two.

You’ve heard stories and you’ve heard rumors about the GMAT exam, but now it is time to go directly to the source. In this episode, Vineet Chhabra the Senior Director of Products at GMAC joins us to break down some common myths about the GMAT Exam. Do certain strategies produce higher scores? Are some questions more important than others? Find out what is fact and what is fiction about the GMAT exam. Ready to test if you know the facts about the GMAT Exam? Take this quiz and see if you know what is fact and what is fiction.

Are you ready to take your GMAT Exam prep to the next level? Are you looking for harder questions as you prep for the GMAT? Learn about the GMAT Official Advanced Prep. Join Pam Brown the Director of Product Management of the Assessments at GMAC as she discusses what Advanced Prep is, who can benefit from it, and all the features Advanced prep has to guide you to success. To get started, for your exam prep, download the 12 Exclusive GMAT Questions today! 

There are now two delivery options for the GMAT exam. You can take the exam at either a test-center or take it online. But which version of the GMAT exam is right for you? In this episode, host Eric Chambers interviews Vineet Chhabra the Senior Director of Product Management at GMAC, to discuss similarities and differences between the GMAT Online exam and the test center version of the GMAT Exam. Vineet also gives advice on how you can choose which exam best fits your business school goals. To help you decide, download this chart that gives you a comparison chart of the GMAT Online and the GMAT test-center-based exam.

Where do you see yourself in 8 weeks? Taking the GMAT exam takes time and some practice to get the best score you possibly can. In this episode, our guest Pam Brown, the Director of Product Management, discusses the 8-week journey needed to maximize your GMAT exam success. Pam walks you through the practice needed, your time commitment, and gives tips for success along your journey. In 8 weeks, you’ll be ready to take the GMAT. Check out our 8 Week Study Planner